Ivato Airport in Antananarivo has welcomed its first Emirates flight. celebrating with a water canon salute over flight EK707, as it touched down in Madagascar.
The Boeing 777-300ER aircraft took off earlier in the day on the 4 September with an almost full passenger load from Mahe, in the Seychelles.
H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, said: “In just four months, through shared determination and hard work, we have successfully launched this long-awaited inaugural flight between Dubai and Antananarivo with Emirates. This is a historic moment for Madagascar and I am convinced that it will act as a catalyst and a true lever for tourism and economic development in our country. Madagascar opens its skies to Emirates and through Emirates, Madagascar opens itself to the world.”
Meanwhile, Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and CCO, Emirates, said: “Madagascar is a new and exciting destination on our vast global network, unlocking a world of natural wonders, rare and diverse wildlife and a rich, vibrant culture. As the Malagasy government continues to grow its tourism industry with the aim to attract one million tourists by 2028, we proudly support this vision by enhancing connectivity and premium travel options to encourage more international travellers to discover the island.”
The route will be served four times weekly and has been scheduled to optimise connections to and from key points in Europe, the Far East, West Asia and the Middle East, streamlining connectivity with Madagascar.
